In an unprecedented move that has sent shockwaves through the monarchy, Buckingham Palace has officially stripped Prince Andrew of all his military affiliations and royal patronages. The dramatic announcement comes as the Duke of York faces a civil sexual assault case in the United States.
The Fall from Grace
The Queen has personally approved the decision to remove her second son's remaining official roles, effectively ending his public life as a working royal. This represents the most significant disciplinary action taken against a senior royal in modern history.
A terse statement released by Buckingham Palace confirmed: "With The Queen's approval and agreement, the Duke of York's military affiliations and Royal patronages have been returned to The Queen. The Duke of York will continue not to undertake any public duties and is defending this case as a private citizen."
What Andrew Has Lost
The disgraced duke has been forced to relinquish:
- All military affiliations, including honorary roles in the Royal Navy and other armed forces
- His prestigious position as Colonel of the Grenadier Guards
- Numerous royal patronages with charities and organisations
- His remaining HRH style in an official capacity
The Legal Battle Continues
This dramatic development follows Prince Andrew's failure to have Virginia Giuffre's civil lawsuit dismissed. Ms Giuffre alleges she was sexually assaulted by the prince on three separate occasions when she was 17 years old - claims Prince Andrew has consistently denied.
The case continues to cast a long shadow over the Royal Family as they prepare for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations later this year. Royal commentators describe this as the most severe crisis to hit the monarchy since the death of Princess Diana.
Prince Andrew will now face his accuser in court as a private citizen, with the eyes of the world watching what could become one of the most sensational royal legal battles in living memory.
